A RUSSIAN EQUESTRIAN BRONZE GROUP OF TWO COSSACK HORSEMEN

Russian sculptor Vassili Yacovlevich Grachev (1831-1905) is popularly known for his portrayal of Cossack subjects, who were famed for their self-reliance and military skills. This fine bronze perfectly captures the real sense of movement and action for which his best groups are admired. The two rearing horses are clearly unnerved by an unknown object in the quagmire below and the reactions of the Cossack horsemen are wonderfully animated, with their gaze drawn in surprise to the same spot.